Politicians
Several US Presidents have visited Weirs Beach. The most famous visit was President Theodore Roosevelt’s. On August 28, 1902, he give a speech in the Veteran’s Grove. Thousands came to watch.
President Grover Cleveland visited Weirs Beach while he was vacationing at the summer estate of Stilson Hutchins on Governor’s Island. He made several fishing trips on the yacht Gilnockie. At the time, the estate owned the entire island. In 1928, the development of Governor’s Island began as it was subdivided into many parcels.
Every four years, New Hampshire natives recall another type of person who come often to Weirs Beach – POLITICIANS!
Since 1920, New Hampshire has held the first presidential primary in the nation. Weirs Beach has played a role in many presidential elections.
George H.W. Bush came to Weirs Beach in 1988 while campaigning for the Presidency, and went on a fundraising cruise on the M/S Mount Washington.
RESULT: WON.
Republican presidental candidate Bob Dole also went on a fundraising cruise on the Mount, in 1996.
RESULT: LOST.
On October 15, 2008, Vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin gave a speech on a speaker’s platform erected right in the middle of Lakeside Avenue.
RESULT: LOST.
Palin gives her speech. Click here for many more photos of the rally.
RESULT: WON.
In a 1907 brochure, the New Hotel Weirs (see Golden Era page on this website) claimed among its clientele a slew of domestic and foreign dignitaries – Senators, Congressmen, Governors, Admirals, Generals, and even Prime Ministers!